Stories:
Americans Assisting South Africa with Wheelchairs
South Africa
August 19, 2009
In mid-July of this year, 25 Americans traveled to the Lowveld of South Africa to help with the distribution of several hundred wheelchairs. Along the way, they were able to experience first hand the excitement of helping a disabled person into their very own wheelchair, usually the very first wheelchair they have ever had.
Wheelchair Foundation President David Behring, and his mother, Mrs. Patricia Behring, were present for these distributions. There were also more than 20 kind hearted donors present who had collectively helped sponsor a portion of the wheelchairs South African District 9250 Rotarians have been fortunate to receive in the past.
The group distributed 36 wheelchairs to patients at the Hlokomela Aids Clinic, which is located just outside Hoedspruit, South Africa. Although the prevalence of HIV in South Africa is portrayed in simple terms in the world media, the true extent of the problem becomes clear when seeing first hand how little is being provided in the way of relief to patients and their families.
The following day, a distribution was staged in White River, South Africa, at the Ingwenyama Lodge. Donations were presented to the Desmond Tutu Center for Leadership, as well. Later that same day, the group traveled onward to Masoyi Village, where they delivered 10 wheelchairs to disabled children, as well as donating school supplies, new clothing and other aid.
The final distribution of this leg of the journey took place in Rustenburg, South Africa. Volunteers fitted some 63 wheelchairs and provided recipients with blankets and other gifts.
Wheelchair Foundation’s work in South Africa is made easier through a wonderful and productive relationship with Rotary Clubs and Rotarians. Without Rotary, much of what has been accomplished would simply not be possible. Our most sincere thanks to the Rotarians of District 9250 for their continued support of the mission of Wheelchair Foundation.
